RFC ENLISTED RANKS INSIGNIAS

Will someone explain the RFC EM ranking system to me (think the Brits call it OR for "Other Ranks")? I have seen photos with a four bladed prop where chevrons would normally go and have seen reference to "AM" and "AM1" which I believe is Air Mechanic and Air Mechanic First Class. Also have seen two bladed prop on the lower sleeve that I understand is some sort of rating, but not a rank actually. Help!!

Thanks,
Steve

[PeterL]

Steve, the various propellor insignia identify OR's as you say. A similar system is still in use in the RAF where the two plades indicate Leading Aircraftman or LAC (PFC in US parlance I think) three is Senior Aircraftsman or SAC (equivalent to Lance Corporal) and four is JT or Junior Technician, which is as you say a grade.In the past a single inverted chevron would have been worn. You would , and still do, also see the four blades in combination with Sgts stripes on a Chief Technician.

HTH

Peter L

Hi Steve,

Space permitting, I'll try to help with your query-

Officers of the RFC used their rank descriptions & badges of their parent Regiment/Corp.

Other Ranks were given permission to wear the following RFC badges;

Warrant Officer 1st Class. Royal Arms worn on sleeve below elbow.
Warrant Officer 2nd Class. Large Kings Crown as above.
Quartermaster-Sergeant. Four inverted chevrons with flight Sgts. four blade propeller (star in centre) above.
Flight Sergeant. Three chevrons with four blade propeller(star in centre) above, & Kings Crown above that.Worn on both arms above the elbow.
Sergeant. Three chevrons - four bladed propeller (no star) above. Worn on both arms above the elbow.
Corporal. Two chevrons only - worn both arms above the elbow.
Air Mechanic 1st class - two bladed propeller, worn above right elbow only.
Air Mechanics 2nd & 3rd class had no rank insignia.
Trade badge - A letter 'O' with six streaks of lightning were worn by qualified wireless operators.
The RNAS had their own badge variations until they amalgamated with the RFC in April 1918. Hope the above answers one or two questions.

Regards, jermedal.